Catholic Blessing of the Animals to be at churches Oct. 2-4

PORTLAND — Animal lovers from around Maine are invited to flock to have their animal companions blessed outdoors in celebration of Saint Francis of Assisi’s Feast Day on Monday, Oct. 4.
All pets are welcome to attend any of the Blessing of the Animals events. As prayers are offered, the pets will be gently sprinkled with holy water. Saint Francis of Assisi was known for his love of all of God’s creatures.
Blessings will take place from Saturday, Oct. 2, through Monday, Oct. 4, at Catholic churches throughout Turner Publishing area, including:
Saturday, Oct. 2
Lewiston – Front lawn of the Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul, 122 Ash St., 10 a.m.
Gray – Outside of St. Gregory Church, 24 North Raymond Road, 10:30-11 a.m.
Sunday, Oct. 3
Gorham – Outside of St. Anne Church, 299 Main St. 1 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 4
Winslow – Grotto of St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St., 6 p.m.